John Andres, Founder & CEO of Provizual is transforming how construction teams visualize project data by refusing to force them into rigid, office-centric workflows. In his conversation with Chloe on this episode of The Future of Construction, John explains why construction software must adapt to the messy realities of job sites rather than forcing standardization. 

His comparison of construction to a "reversed assembly line" fundamentally reframes how we should approach project visualization and management. Drawing from his experience on both sides of the construction tech equation, John offers practical wisdom on data strategy, AI implementation, and why standardized processes are the critical foundation for future innovation.

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The traditional approach to land acquisition is undergoing a dramatic transformation thanks to technology pioneers like Dylan Goren, Co-founder & CEO of Pillar. In this episode of The Future of Construction, Dylan walks Chloe through how Pillar's platform is automating site selection and land acquisition for residential developers, turning what used to be weeks of manual work into minutes of efficient processing. 

With a few clicks, users can identify sub-markets using points of interest like grocery stores or comparable properties, define their exact criteria for parcels and assemblages, and even execute bulk mailing campaigns to landowners — all within a single workflow. 

Dylan also explains their ingenious paragraph interface that makes complex queries accessible to anyone, describing how one customer praised it as "idiot-proof in the best way possible." Unlike traditional data aggregators who lock information behind paywalls, Pillar is building an open architecture platform that empowers users to leverage public data in increasingly sophisticated ways, fundamentally shifting where competitive advantage comes from in real estate development.

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Construction 3D printing is positioned to revolutionize how we build, but the path to mass adoption is paved with regulatory hurdles and financial challenges. In this episode of The Future of Construction, Tom Macrokanis, Founder & Director of Macro3D, shares his journey from software developer to pioneering 3D concrete printing in Australia. 

Tom tells Chloe how he created a profitable steel fabrication business specifically to fund his printing technology, the challenges of convincing skeptical builders that 3D printed walls function like double brick construction, and his data-driven approach to quality assurance — tracking every material property throughout the printing process. 

Despite battling constrained investment environments and construction payment terms that leave "hundreds of thousands in unpaid invoices," Tom remains committed to solving Australia's housing shortage through faster construction methods that require fewer workers.

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When Zach Rapaport's father handed him a broom instead of a project management role after college, it sparked an unlikely journey from sweeping construction sites to becoming Founder & Principal at Meerkat Companies — and managing 150,000 square feet of development projects in just its first year. 

In this episode of The Future of Construction, Zach tells Chloe how he feeds complex land ordinances into AI "cauldrons" to qualify development opportunities in minutes rather than hours, his surprising success with Gen Z employees who consistently arrive at the office before he does, and why he rejected the venture-capital model to build a sustainable company that prioritizes employee psychological safety over rapid expansion. 

Zach also shares the transformative moment when he saw families enjoying a restaurant he'd built, cementing his passion for hospitality construction over warehouse development.

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In this episode of The Future of Construction podcast, Chloe welcomes Sam Dowd, Sales Director at Viking Fence & Viking Rentals. Together, they dive into the importance of building community within the construction industry, highlighting how Sam's Central Texas Construction and Commercial Real Estate Happy Hour fosters valuable connections among professionals. 

The conversation also explores the critical role of mental health and well-being in the workplace, emphasizing that prioritizing these aspects can lead to enhanced productivity and stronger relationships. Tune in to discover how cultivating a supportive environment can transform both personal and professional dynamics in construction. 

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In this episode of The Future of Construction, Chloe chats with Tom Deane, Co-founder & CEO at ProjectMark. Tom shares his insights on the evolving landscape of construction technology, including the challenges of technology adoption within the industry and the need for a cultural shift and executive buy-in to ensure successful implementation. 

Tom also highlights the importance of understanding workflows and the role of curiosity in driving innovation. Additionally, he reflects on the balance between maintaining day-to-day operations while integrating new tools, providing valuable strategies for construction leaders looking to enhance their business development and marketing efforts. 

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• The importance of fostering a culture of curiosity and innovation within construction companies to facilitate successful technology adoption and implementation.  

In this episode of the Future of Construction podcast, Chloe sits down with Francis Hester, CEO of Captain Hook Dumpster Rentals, to explore the evolving landscape of the construction industry. Francis shares his entrepreneurial journey and the pivotal moments that shaped his business. 

Together, they also parse the distinction between efficiency and effectiveness, emphasizing the importance of identifying the right objectives in business operations. Francis also discusses the significance of a customer-centric approach and how understanding client goals can drive success. Additionally, he highlights the challenges and opportunities of integrating technology into traditional industries, offering valuable insights for leaders looking to innovate and adapt. 

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• The distinction between efficiency and effectiveness, and why leaders must prioritize understanding the right objectives over merely improving operational efficiency.  

In our inaugural episode of The Future of Construction podcast, our host Chloe Smith, Founder and CEO of Mercator.ai welcomes Phil Thoden, President of the Austin Chapter of the AGC. Phil Thoden emphasizes the critical role of technology in enhancing efficiency and problem-solving, advocating for the adoption of digital tools to streamline processes. Phil also discusses the importance of cultivating a welcoming culture to attract younger talent, highlighting how a positive onboarding experience can make a significant difference. 

Additionally, Phil shares his perspectives on the future of the construction industry. Phil also highlights the importance of fostering a welcoming culture to attract younger talent, ensuring they feel valued and engaged. He also  discusses the need for diversity within the workforce, explaining how showcasing diverse individuals can reshape perceptions and broaden the talent pool. 

Topics discussed:

• How embracing technology, particularly AI and digital tools, can streamline construction processes and enhance overall efficiency in project management.